On October 26, 2024, the Church of St. Thomas More in Subang Jaya hosted Malaysia’s annual White Mass for Catholic doctors and healthcare providers, gathering medical professionals to reaffirm their vocation of healing in the spirit of Christ.
Rooted in the intercessions of St. Luke, the patron saint of physicians, this annual celebration offers a unique moment for those in the medical field to reflect on the deeper, spiritual dimensions of their work.
The White Mass, traditionally held in October to honor St. Luke’s feast, has become a symbol of the Catholic Church’s recognition of the sacredness of healthcare professions.
Organized by the Catholic Doctors Association of Malaysia (CDAM), the event drew doctors, nurses, and other healthcare practitioners from across the country.
Presiding over the Mass, Fr. Gregory Chan spoke of the Christian responsibility within the medical vocation, urging attendees to continue Christ’s healing ministry by approaching their work as both a medical and spiritual calling.
He expressed gratitude for the dedication of healthcare professionals who serve both the Church and the broader community, emphasizing the impact of their compassion and service, especially in times of crisis.
The Mass included a special prayer of intercession for St. Luke, followed by a keynote address by Dr. David Kumar, a respected medical leader and long-time member of CDAM.
Dr. Kumar encouraged the doctors to view their service as an extension of their faith, reminding them of the importance of empathy, integrity, and humility in all interactions with patients and colleagues.
He also highlighted current healthcare challenges in Malaysia, particularly the need for mental health support, equitable healthcare access, and palliative care—a growing area of concern among Malaysia’s aging population.
Following the liturgy, attendees gathered for a time of fellowship, strengthening bonds within the Catholic medical community and discussing ways to enhance their service to patients.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by healthcare workers in Malaysia, including burnout and resource limitations, CDAM members discussed plans to provide spiritual support and resources for Catholic healthcare professionals across Malaysia.
The White Mass has become more than just an annual tradition; it serves as a reminder of the call to serve beyond clinical duties, bringing the compassion and hope of Christ to patients and families alike.
Through such gatherings, Catholic doctors and healthcare providers in Malaysia are empowered to be witnesses of faith in their profession, striving to embody Christ’s love and mercy in their daily work.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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